on the american classroom

As a student, I had plenty of classes where the professor droned on with little to no participation from students. I had classes where we had loads of group work and classes where we had none. And I had several professors I felt completely comfortable with, a few I didn't care for, and one I completely idolized (and was naturally seized with terror any time I had to speak to her). I came to expect that in most of my major classes, there would be class discussion (though I may or may not choose to participate), and that occasionally I would have to work with my classmates. Foreign students, on the other hand, arrive to the US with little idea what to expect out of the American classroom.*

For example, they are often shocked (and sometimes appalled) to discover that in many American classrooms (especially ESL), you are usually expected to participate. No longer can students sit in class, searching the internet on their iphones or facebooking on their laptops (although they sometimes still do), for they never know when they may be expected to answer a question or break into group discussions.

They are also surprised to find that they can actually talk to their teachers. Us American professors are typically happy to answer questions after class, explain the logic behind assignments, or even just chat with students. We acknowledge that we are neither omnipotent nor omniscient (at least some of us do...the ESL teachers do). Foreign students are also surprised to find out that if they have a problem with another student in the class, they can talk to their professor. Or if they hate an assignment, they can complain about it; the instructor may not do anything, but we'll at least listen.

And, of course, group work. American classrooms are often filled with group class work, presentations, or discussions. Foreign students are often loathe to participate in group work, instead spending their time finding reasons to complain about the project, their group members, or something else totally irrelevant (maybe something they don't like about American culture...or American food...or the way the teacher hands out papers...).Which is actually quite similar to the way many American students react, except the Americans are trained to complain and the foreigners pick up on it all too quickly.

I've decided that all incoming foreign students should be informed of these things before they're thrust into the thick of things. It would make their lives a lot easier. And it would definitely make my life a lot easier. Is there anything you would tell a foreign student about class in America?

*My disclaimer: I'm sure there are many of you who never had to work in groups in your college classes or never said a word during lectures. I know you're out there. As you read this, just imagine a major where you have to be vocal. Or think about your high school classes. Or maybe grade school...